Warning over string of cold call scams across Greenwich
A couple paid out £70,000 for a new roof they did not need after being targeted by traders who knocked on their door.
The cold callers came to their doorstep to offer repairs on their property, but the couple were intimidated and harassed by the rogue traders to pay the money in cash instalments.
One of the scammers is described as having an Australian accent, and the other an Irish accent.
The con is one of a string of worrying incidents Greenwich council is highlighting in a new campaign.
Another resident has recently been the victim of an attempted phone scam, where the criminal tried to take money from her bank account.
The council has also seen a recent increase in reports of romance fraud – where a fraudster pretends to build a genuine relationship with a person and then exploits them for money.
Two residents have lost £10,000 and £5,000 respectively in cases which are being investigated.
Greenwich council is urging residents and local businesses to beware of scammers who want to cheat people out of their hard-earned money.
The council’s trading standards team is working with residents, local businesses, the police and other organisations to tackle fraudsters in the borough.
Cllr Jackie Smith, cabinet member for community safety and enforcement, said: “We’re encouraging residents and local businesses to be vigilant.
“Unfortunately these criminals will use a variety of methods to try and get your money, whether through doorstep cold calling, telephone calls or online means.
“Any one of us can fall victim to a scam, but there are simple steps we can follow to protect ourselves. Don’t give out personal information such as your name, address or bank details, avoid dealing with doorstep cold callers who may appear friendly but are very persistent, and never send money to anyone you’ve never met before.”
If you need advice, you can contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.
If you think you may have been the victim of fraud or cyber crime, you should report this to Action Fraud by clicking here or by calling 0300 123 2040. Action Fraud is the UK’s National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre.
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